Warming centers available in Columbia for those in need

Because of a weather forecast of only 29 degrees Monday, David Tye, right, and Jackie Richardson take advantage of the warming center at the the Missouri United Methodist Church on Ninth Street on Monday. The Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services coordinates a network of nine warming centers around the city, and there are six overnight locations available for people needing shelter when the weather gets cold.¦Greg Kendall-Ball

COLUMBIA — The Columbia and Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services reminds residents of places where they can warm up during the cold weather this winter.

Monday is expected to be cloudy with a high 27 degrees and with a windchill as low as 20 degrees. On Tuesday, there is a 40 percent chance of snow with a high of 32 degrees and a windchill as low as 12 degrees , according to the National Weather Service website.

Do not ignore shivering, it is a sign that the body is losing heat. If shivering persists, go indoors.

Know the warning signs for hypothermia, an abnormally low body temperature. Continued exposure to cold temperatures can cause confusion, drowsiness, clumsiness and exhaustion.

Know the signs and symptoms for frostbite, or injury to the body caused by freezing. Frostbite mostly affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes. Signs include tingling and numbness, white or grayish yellow areas of skin, and skin that feels waxy.

Be safe while outdoors by avoiding ice-covered walkways, and be cautious while shoveling snow.

Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads, overpasses and bridges.

Limit outdoor time for children and monitor for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.

Check on family, friends and neighbors who could be at high risk of cold-related injury or illness including elderly, those that are fighting an illness and people that do not have access to adequate heat.

Provide proper shelter for pets. If pets or livestock must remain outdoors, provide fresh water and food supplies on a regular basis.

If you become stranded in your vehicle, cover your body with extra clothing and remain in your vehicle.

—The Department of Public Health and Human Services

Throughout the rest of the week, Wednesday's high is expected to be around 22 degrees , with highs in the lower 30s on Thursday and Friday.

The public is welcome to access lobbies, restrooms and drinking fountains of these places during normal business hours:

The Public Health and Human Services Department also provides two utilities assistance programs to Boone County residents. The Heat Energy and Light Program provides one-time emergency assistance to low-income families with young children. Citizens Assisting Seniors and Handicapped provides emergency assistance to low-income senior citizens and persons with disabilities.